Isah, Godwin Win 5th Abuja Bikers’ Race, Target Olympics

Momoh Isah and Osaretin Godwin emerged winners of the male and female categories at the fifth Abuja Bikers’ Race, held on Saturday, 17 October, along the Federal Secretariat aisles in Abuja.

The event attracted cyclists from different parts of Nigeria and was organised to promote cycling and identify emerging talents capable of representing the country at international competitions.

Isah said his victory had strengthened his ambition to compete at the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles, United States.

“Winning this race is a great motivation for me. I thank the organisers for creating this platform for cyclists to showcase their talent,” he said.

“I will continue to work hard because my target is to compete at the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles.”

In the women’s category, Godwin said she hoped to earn a place in the national team and eventually become an Olympic champion.

“This victory gives me more confidence. My ultimate ambition is to join the national team and become an Olympic champion,” she said.

“I will keep training and pushing myself, and I believe more races like this will help young Nigerian cyclists gain the exposure they need.”

Vice-President of the Cycling Federation of Nigeria, Habu Abdulrahman, congratulated the winners, saying the competition had once again demonstrated the depth of cycling talent in the country.

“I congratulate Momoh Isah and Osaretin Godwin for their victories. This race has again shown that Nigeria has abundant cycling talent,” Abdulrahman said.

He pledged the federation’s continued support for initiatives aimed at discovering and developing athletes for national and international competitions.

Abdulrahman also called for increased investment in cycling infrastructure, dedicated cycling routes and the introduction of a special cycling day to improve safety and encourage more Nigerians to take up the sport.

The race convenor, Marian Oluwapidan, said cycling could enhance Nigeria’s international reputation while promoting physical fitness and social interaction.

She also advocated integrating cycling into educational programmes as a means of empowering young people and helping them develop their sporting abilities.

Oluwapidan expressed appreciation to government representatives and road safety officials for helping to ensure safety during the event.

She called for designated cycling routes and a special cycling day on which restrictions would be placed on vehicles used for commuting, allowing cyclists to ride more safely.

“Cycling can help Nigeria build a stronger reputation globally, and it also offers physical health and social benefits. We believe it can be integrated with educational programmes as a tool for empowerment,” she said.

“We are grateful to the government representatives and road safety corps officials for helping to ensure safe conditions during the event.

“We also appeal for designated cycling routes and a special cycling day when commuting vehicles would be restricted. This will allow children to ride in groups with greater confidence and safety under coaches’ supervision.”